Disneyland Resort is gearing up for the runDisney Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon Weekend, a much-anticipated annual event that blends fitness, fun, and the magic of the parks. Scheduled for September 4 to 7, the event will bring a temporary but important shift to the park’s Early Entry schedule, a perk highly valued by guests staying at Disneyland Resort hotels.
These operational updates are designed to help manage large crowds efficiently while maintaining a smooth experience for both race participants and everyday visitors. Guests planning their trips during this weekend are encouraged to review the changes in advance to maximize their time in the parks.
What’s Changing on September 5 and 6
The most notable adjustments will take place on Friday, September 5, and Saturday, September 6:
- Friday, September 5 – Early Entry will take place at Disneyland Park instead of Disney California Adventure.
- Saturday, September 6 – Early Entry will move to Disney California Adventure instead of Disneyland Park.
This swap is temporary and ensures smooth logistics for runners and spectators during the marathon events. Starting September 7, the schedule will return to its normal rotation.
How Early Entry Benefits Work
For guests unfamiliar with the program, Early Entry allows Disneyland Resort hotel guests to access select attractions, dining, and shops 30 minutes before the parks officially open.
The standard rotation for Early Entry typically follows this pattern:
- Disneyland Park: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays
- Disney California Adventure: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays
During the marathon weekend, guests should plan their park visits accordingly. Those with existing reservations can easily adjust them in the Disneyland app, ensuring they make the most of the updated schedule. Guests with linked hotel confirmations also receive priority booking access for reservations, which is particularly helpful during busy event weekends.
Impact on Non-Hotel Guests
Non-hotel guests will not have access to Early Entry during the weekend adjustments and will need to plan around regular opening hours. Visitors looking to avoid heavy crowds can take advantage of the park that is not offering Early Entry on a given day, as it will generally see slightly smaller morning crowds.
For example, on September 5, starting at Disney California Adventure could mean shorter wait times since most Early Entry guests will be at Disneyland Park.
The Future of Early Entry
Disneyland has recently revealed that the Early Entry program will be phased out in January 2026. In its place, a new Lightning Lane benefit will be offered to Disneyland Resort hotel guests. This shift is part of an evolving strategy aimed at balancing guest experiences and ensuring a fairer distribution of park access for all visitors.
Additionally, the private hotel park entrance will be removed, signaling a broader transformation in how exclusive benefits are structured at the resort.
Halloween Events and the Oogie Boogie Bash
The marathon weekend also coincides with the start of the Halloween season at Disneyland Resort. A highlight of the season is the Oogie Boogie Bash, an after-hours Halloween event held at Disney California Adventure on select nights.
On event nights, California Adventure will close early to the general public to accommodate party guests. Visitors should plan ahead if their park days coincide with these early closures to avoid unexpected schedule changes.
Tips for Planning a Smooth Visit
To make the most out of your Disneyland trip during this busy weekend, consider the following tips:
- Check the daily schedule – Always review park hours and event details before heading out for the day.
- Update reservations early – Adjust your plans through the Disneyland app if your Early Entry park access changes.
- Arrive early – Whether you have Early Entry or not, arriving before the gates open ensures a head start on popular attractions.
- Monitor event closures – Be mindful of Oogie Boogie Bash dates to avoid losing evening park time at Disney California Adventure.
- Stay flexible – With special events and large crowds, flexibility is key for a stress-free experience.
Disneyland Prepares for a Magical Marathon Weekend
The runDisney Disneyland Halloween Half Marathon is a beloved event that draws thousands of runners and Disney fans each year. By temporarily adjusting the Early Entry schedule, Disneyland aims to keep operations organized while providing an enjoyable experience for everyone.
Whether you’re visiting for the races, the Halloween festivities, or just to enjoy the magic of the parks, a little planning and awareness of these temporary changes will help make your visit as smooth and memorable as possible.
As the fall season unfolds, guests can look forward to cooler weather, themed entertainment, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate the Halloween spirit — all while creating magical memories at the Happiest Place on Earth.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
